Based on interviews with Buddhists living in the West and the East, this is an innovative introduction to a fascinating religion. As well as giving an accessible overview of the history, beliefs, practices and rituals of the faith, the book offers a reservoir of personal insights, scholarly and non-scholarly, and features chapters on: The Buddha, what the Buddha taught, meditation, buddhism and social engagement, women in Buddhism.

This book offers an insider's view of what it is to be a Buddhist today, and will be a source of fascination for anyone interested in the Buddhist faith and in the commitment and vision of those who practice it.